Bird Details

Clint takes a holiday.

How can a man who played Dirty Harry be responsible for directing work of this quality? It beggars belief that we haven't seen more of this sensitive, honest and substantial side of him. Among the performers, Forrest Whittaker is marvellous as Charlie Parker, bringing irony and humour to a role that could be spoiled by more of a 'trophy' actor. One of the real triumphs of the movie is the music (unsurprising) which has been re-worked to feature original Charlie Parker saxophone alongside entirely new and modern backing tracks. The two meld together so well, it simply sounds like a recording from the grave made yesterday. Any jazz fan would be delighted by this, but its a human story first, so settle down with a scotch and milk and enjoy.

[Highly rated reviewer]

Just a little too self-indulgent

Eastwood's love of the music is self-evident and there are many aspects of Bird that are lovingly crafted and skilfully executed. In the end, though, the film struggles to speak to an audience that isn't already familiar with Parker and his monumental importance to modern popular music. The film takes far too long to get going and could easily have been an hour shorter - jazz fans will tolerate the sluggish pace but it might leave the wider audience somewhat cold. Great performances all round, though - this is far better than the usual biopic fare and knocks certain recent efforts (such as 'Ray' and 'Walk The Line') into a cocked hat.